The Italian Market: Rocky's Neighborhood

The 9th Street Italian Market bills itself as one of the oldest continuously operating open-air markets in the country, with roots going back to 1884. While Sylvester Stallone made it famous in the Rocky films, the market has evolved far beyond its Italian roots — today you'll find Mexican taquerias, Vietnamese pho shops, and Korean grocers alongside the original Italian butchers and cheese shops. The annual Italian Market Festival in May fills the street with crowds.